The most common question posed to those who freely give to charities is, "Why do you give?"

Besides an altruistic, good feeling that comes from helping others, there are societal advantages for supporting local nonprofit agencies. We cannot rely on our government to fully provide for the many needs of our communities. As nonprofit agencies have become the glue that holds our communities together, social responsibility by all of us-private citizens and local businesses-is necessary. Contributions to worthy charities and projects are the critical path toward building better neighborhoods and healthy businesses.

Successful nonprofit agencies are well run businesses that provide valuable services to our communities. The name "nonprofit" does not mean that these organizations operate without adequate funding or operational expertise. Melissa Ponchard, executive director of Tri-City Volunteers explains that, "High quality infrastructure, personnel and technology are key factors to the mission of being a food bank, thrift store and volunteer services agency." Without the support and funding of the community, Tri-City Volunteers and those relying on its services would be adversely affected. Contributions, large and small, are vital to the success of the nonprofit organization and others like it.

A healthy, stable and secure community is less expensive than one fraught with inefficiency and hopelessness. Concerned businesses, especially those closely aligned with their communities, are well aware of these problems and offer services and support to organizations that work to alleviate the root causes of a problematic society. Profitable enterprises are supported by a stable environment in which everyone can enjoy common endeavors and participate in the local economy. An example of this is the Fremont Bank-Aqua Adventure Water Park which was a combined effort of public and private funds. The Fremont Bank Foundation and Fremont Candle Lighters were major contributors to this joint venture with the City of Fremont.

In most communities it is the local businesses that support local nonprofits and Fremont Bank is no exception. The bank has supported community-based nonprofits through local contributions, volunteer activities, shared conference facilities and innovative products such as the B-CharitableSM checking account. Innovative methods, such as the B-CharitableSM checking account, help individuals combine their efforts to make a difference in their community.

B-CharitableSM account holders' economic power is multiplied when Fremont Bank combines the year-to-date average available annual balances of all B-CharitableSM account holders who have selected the same charity from a list of local nonprofit partners that participate in the bank's program. The power of one becomes the power of many!

To learn how B-CharitableSM checking accounts are an easy and efficient way to support our communities, stop by your local Fremont Bank branch, call (800) 359-2265 (BANK) or visit www.fremontbank.com/bcharitable.

Be a part of the charitable buzz...

If you think one person can make a difference...Imagine what an entire community can do!